In the deadliest day for firefighters since 9/11 (and Arizona's worst firefighter tragedy), a elite group of 19 firefighters were killed fighting the Yarnell Hills wildfire, which has spread to more than 8,000 acres across the state. 20 percent of the Prescott, Ariz. Fire Department has been lost. Both Arizona Governor Jan Brewer and President Obama have expressed their sympathies and praised the efforts of the firefighters, and you can join them. Even if you're far away from Arizona, there's still ways to help in this time of crisis and mourning.
Donate to the Widland Firefighter Foundation. This foundation provides emotional and financial relief for families of wildland firefighters. You can even donate in honor of someone specific who has passed. wffoundation.org
Donate to the Red Cross Grand Canyon. Helping people in times of crisis, the Red Cross can provide support — both physical and emotional to those affected by the Yarnell Hills wildfire. The local chapter for Prescott, Ariz. is the Grand Canyon chapter. Donations can be made online at redcross.org/donate or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS.
The 100 Club's Survivor Fund in memory of the Granite Mountain Hotshots: The 100 Club is an organization that provides financial assistance to Arizona families of public service officers who are injured or killed while on the job. Donate to the Granite Mountain Hotshots to help provide relief for the families of these firefighters. 100club.org
Don't forget that even the smallest of actions can make all the difference. Wear purple to honor the fallen firefighters. You can also "like" In Memory of Prescott Firefighters Lost 6/30/2013 on Facebook for further updates about the crisis.
